If your loved one was responsible for the care of children, dependent adults, or pets, quickly find someone who can temporarily care for them while you set up a long-term care plan.

Arrange care for any pets or dependents

Secure major property

Notify close family and friends

Select a funeral home or other provider

Notify the person's employer

Notify the broader community

Start going through the mail

Sign up for the DDNC list

Perform a more thorough home check

Decide on a method of disposition

Decide on a final resting place

Order a casket or urn

Write an obituary

Order death certificates

Give direction on memorial donations

Notify life insurance companies

Settle any trusts

Apply for social security survivor benefits

Apply for veterans benefits

Ask about employer benefits

Get additional support

Decide what type of funeral or memorial event(s) you would like to have

Choose a venue

Set the date and time

Decide whether to livestream events

Choose participants

Write your eulogy

Determine the order of events

Order printed programs

Create any desired videos

Order flowers and other decor

Coordinate food and drinks

Start the probate process

Hire a tax accountant

Notify the mortgage company or landlord

Notify any car lenders

Notify cable and internet provider(s)

Notify the cell service provider

Notify utility companies

Cancel online subscriptions

Cancel physical subscriptions

Find and close bank accounts

Find and transfer ownership of investment accounts

Memorialize their Facebook page

Cancel their driver's license

Close credit cards

Cancel or transfer insurance policies

Close other online accounts

Close any email accounts

Cancel and transfer money from online payment accounts

Transfer unused airline miles and close accounts

Transfer unused hotel rewards and close accounts

Notify the social security office

Notify major credit reporting agencies

Notify any additional creditors

Distribute items mentioned in the will

Sell any unwanted valuables

Offer other items to friends and family

Donate other useful items

Throw away anything that's remaining

Order a headstone

Send thank you notes

Consider future memorial events

Create your will

Record your own information

Consider life insurance